Awesome to both! [multi quote fail]
I'm actually going over there to get married (partner is from Christchurch) with the eventual 2-3 year plan to relocate there. So the first week will be full of chores - but hope to get the second week dedicated to seeing as much of the South Island as possible. Really looking forward to this trip!
RE: Seattle - https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Attra...77-Reviews-Kerry_Park-Seattle_Washington.html is the park. If you're going to have a car rental I would suggest the short drive to Snoqualmie falls as well - really beautiful and probably about 40 minutes outside of downtown. If you're on foot then Kerry park is probably going to be your best bet. Be prepared for a very high level of homelessness in the downtown area - I was very surprised.